Choosing Better Roofing

When something breaks on your home, you might be tempted to find the cheapest alternative instead of investing massive amounts of money. However, sometimes the more expensive choice is the better one. A few years ago, I realized that we needed a new roof. After doing a little research, I chose inexpensive shingles and nails. After the new products were installed, I could tell that there was a problem. Fortunately, a roofer friend of mine spotted the trouble and helped me to repair my home. This blog is all about helping you to decode roofing materials, so that you can avoid problems down the road.

5 Tips For Keeping Your Roof In Tip-Top Condition

Posted on:
18 August 2015

How is the condition of the roof on your house? If you don't quite know the answer to that question, it's time to pay some attention to your roofing shingles. The following five tips can help you maintain your roof so it faithfully serves its purpose for many years to come.

1. View your roof from the inside

When looking for evidence of water damage, examine the underside of your roof from inside your attic. Use a flashlight to check for water spots on the insulation and rafters. If you do see signs of a leak, follow the trail of water marks until you locate the origin.

2. Get a bird's eye view with binoculars

You don't necessarily need to climb up on the roof every year to get a bird's eye view of damaged or worn roofing shingles. If you're not comfortable with heights, simply walk around the perimeter of your house and inspect the roof from the ground using a pair of binoculars.

3. Sweep off debris

Every year, sweep your roof with a long-handled broom to remove leaves, tree needles and pine cones that have landed there. When this type of debris collects on your roof, it becomes the perfect breeding ground for fungus growth and water damage.

4. Keep roofing cement on hand

It is always good to have a jar of roofing cement on hand for making minor repairs. This way, you can dab a bit of cement beneath the corners of torn or peeling shingles before they become even more damaged by the weather. Roofing cement is also good for filling visible nail holes in your shingles.

5. Protect against algae and mildew

One way to protect against algae is by installing zinc strips on the roof. You can find them at many roofing supply stores. When rain lands on the roof, the zinc strips release zinc ions that inhibit the growth of fungus and moss.

If you notice any black streaks or spots, this is a sign of mildew growth. You want to kill this destructive mildew before it spreads. This can be achieved by scrubbing the affected shingles with a mixture of hot water, bleach and laundry detergent.

Most homeowners perform roof inspections in the springtime to remove fallen debris leftover from the fall and winter seasons. Avoid the urge to put it off for another year because just a small amount of attention today could save you a great deal of roofing problems down the road.

For additional tips on how to maintain your roof, contact a professional roofing contractor.